Fishing Stickbaits for Pelagic Heavyweights

Summary:

• Introduction: Embracing the excitement of stickbait fishing for pelagic heavyweights.
• Understanding Pelagic Predators: Characteristics and popular species like tuna, mahi mahi, and giant trevally.
• Stickbait Fishing: Its allure in sport fishing, targeting pelagic species.
• Lure Selection: Choosing the right stickbait for specific species and conditions.
• Retrieve Techniques: Mastering different actions for effective fishing.
• Handling Pelagic Giants: Tips for managing these powerful fish on heavy tackle.

This is the wonderful horror one can expect when working stickbaits for pelagic predators in many places around the world. It isn't always that dramatic, but it sure as hell can be. Fish like GT's, dogtooth tuna and bluefin tuna are absolutely brutal. Sailfish, wahoo, yellowfin tuna, kingfish and dorado won't make you reconsider your footing, but they are none the less exhilerating to catch on stickbaits.

Stickbait Fishing

Their effectiveness is also amplified by their adaptability to different conditions. Whether it's a calm day or choppy waters, stickbaits can be tuned to perform, much like how the best productivity tools adapt to our changing needs. This adaptability makes them a staple in the arsenal of serious anglers, who, like savvy entrepreneurs, understand the value of versatility and timing in their pursuit of the ultimate catch.

Benefits of Stickbait Fishing

1. Exciting Topwater Action: One of the most electrifying aspects of using stickbaits is the topwater action. This technique allows anglers to witness the strike as it happens. When a predator fish attacks a stickbait on the water's surface, it creates a spectacular show of raw power and agility. The visual spectacle of a fish like a marlin or tuna leaping out of the water to snatch the lure is not only thrilling but also offers a unique insight into the behavior of these majestic creatures. It's an adrenaline rush that encapsulates the essence of sport fishing.
2. Versatility for Different Species and Conditions: Stickbaits are not just about the thrill; they are incredibly versatile tools. Designed to mimic a wounded or fleeing fish, they can be tweaked and maneuvered in various ways to attract different species. This versatility is crucial, as it allows anglers to adapt their strategy to target a wide range of pelagic predators in different environmental conditions. Whether fishing in calm seas or navigating choppy waters, stickbaits can be tuned to suit the situation, increasing the chances of a successful catch.
3. Potential for Trophy Catches: For those angling for a story-worthy catch, stickbaits are an excellent choice. They are particularly effective in attracting larger predatory fish, setting the stage for a potential trophy catch. The size and movement of the stickbait can be selected to target the biggest and most challenging species in the ocean. This potential to land a once-in-a-lifetime fish adds an element of excitement and challenge to fishing, making it an appealing pursuit for both seasoned and novice anglers alike.

Understanding Pelagic Predators

Pelagic predators are a fascinating group of fish that inhabit the pelagic zone of ocean or lake waters – an area that is neither close to the bottom nor near the shore. These fish are characterized by their life in the open water, often in the upper layers of the ocean, where they play a crucial role in the marine ecosystem.

Defining Pelagic Fish

• Open Water Habitat: Pelagic fish live in the open sea, away from the coast and ocean floor. This habitat contrasts with benthic fish that live near the seafloor and coastal fish found near shores. The pelagic zone is vast and varied, ranging from surface waters to the deep ocean.
• Migratory Nature: Many pelagic fish are migratory, traveling long distances across oceans. This migration is often linked to feeding and breeding patterns. For example, species like tuna and certain sharks undertake extensive migrations to find food or to reach spawning grounds.
• Aggressive Predators: Pelagic predators are known for their aggressive hunting strategies. They are often fast swimmers with streamlined bodies, enabling them to chase and capture their prey effectively. Examples include the great white shark, bluefin tuna, and marlin. These species are apex predators in their ecosystems, meaning they have few natural predators and play a critical role in maintaining the balance of marine life.

Common Pelagic Predator Targets

1. Giant Trevally (GT): Known for their brute strength and impressive size, GTs are a top target for sport fishers. They are predominantly found in the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific region. These fish are renowned for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights, making them a thrilling catch.
2. Dogtooth Tuna: Dogtooth Tuna, often found in the Indo-Pacific waters, are known for their elongated bodies and large, dog-like teeth. They are a challenging catch due to their deep-water habitats and formidable fighting capabilities.
3. Tuna (Various Species): Tuna, including species like Bluefin, Yellowfin, and Albacore, are found in various oceans worldwide. Known for their speed and endurance, these fish are highly sought after both for sport and commercial fishing. They're remarkable for their long migrations across oceans.
4. Mahi Mahi (Dolphinfish): Mahi Mahi, also known as Dolphinfish, are recognized by their dazzling colors and remarkable shape. They are commonly found in offshore temperate, tropical, and subtropical waters worldwide. Anglers prize them for their fighting ability and delicious meat.
5. Wahoo: Wahoo are prized for their speed and quality of meat. They are found in tropical and subtropical seas worldwide and are recognizable by their elongated bodies and razor-sharp teeth. They are one of the fastest fish species, making them a challenging and rewarding catch.
6. Sailfish: Sailfish, easily recognized by their long bill and large dorsal fin, are one of the fastest fish in the ocean. Found in both the Atlantic and Indo-Pacific oceans, they are famous for their incredible speed and aerial acrobatics. Sailfish can grow up to 100 kg (220 lbs) but are usually smaller.
7. Kingfish (Various Species): Kingfish, including species like the Yellowtail Kingfish, are found in the subtropical and temperate waters of the Southern Hemisphere. They are known for their strength and speed, offering a vigorous fight to anglers.

Feeding Mechanisms of Pelagic Predators

• Keen Senses: These predators have highly developed sensory organs that allow them to detect prey over great distances. Their vision, sense of smell, and ability to sense vibrations in the water enable them to locate schools of baitfish even in the vastness of the open ocean.
• Speed and Agility: Pelagic predators are often incredibly fast swimmers. This speed, combined with their agility, allows them to swiftly close in on their prey, often resulting in a sudden and explosive attack.
• Opportunistic Hunting: They tend to be opportunistic feeders, capitalizing on the availability of prey. This behavior leads them to feed intensely when conditions are favorable, such as when baitfish are abundant.

Attraction to Stickbaits

• Mimicking Baitfish: Stickbaits are designed to mimic the size, shape, and movement of baitfish, which are a primary food source for many pelagic predators. The realistic swimming action of a well-designed stickbait, coupled with its visual appeal, can be almost indistinguishable from real baitfish, making it an irresistible target for these hunters.
• Triggering Aggressive Responses: The movement of stickbaits, especially when they are jerked or twitched, can simulate the erratic movements of injured or distressed baitfish. This appearance of vulnerability triggers an instinctive aggressive response from pelagic predators, who are programmed to target weak or injured prey as easy targets.
• Visual Appeal and Sound: Many stickbaits are also designed to create a disturbance on the water's surface or emit sounds that mimic those of baitfish. This additional sensory stimulus can be particularly effective in attracting predators from a distance or in murkier waters.

Choosing the Right Stickbait

Floating vs. Sinking Stickbaits

Size and Weight

• Larger Predators (e.g., Tuna): When targeting larger species like tuna, it's generally beneficial to use larger stickbaits. These species are often looking for a substantial meal, and a bigger lure can present a more tempting target. For instance, a big Bluefin tuna is more likely to strike at a larger stickbait that mimics the size of the mackerel or herring they feed on.
• Smaller or More Agile Predators (e.g., Dorado/Mahi Mahi): Smaller species or those known for their agility, like Dorado, may be more enticed by smaller, more agile stickbaits. These lures can more accurately mimic the size and movement of the smaller baitfish these species typically prey upon, like flying fish or small squid.

• Heavier stickbaits allow for longer casting distances, which can be crucial in situations where fish are skittish or the boat cannot get close enough. This is particularly important in windy conditions or when fishing in large open waters where covering more area increases the chances of encountering fish.
• Conversely, lighter stickbaits may provide a more delicate and realistic presentation, especially in calmer conditions or clear waters where fish might be more wary and able to closely inspect the lure.

• In choppy or windy conditions, a heavier stickbait can be advantageous as it remains stable and maintains the desired action. It can also be beneficial when fishing in deeper waters where getting the lure down to the right depth quickly is important.
• In contrast, in shallow or very clear water, a lighter and perhaps floating stickbait might be more effective. It can be worked slowly and meticulously to entice bites without spooking the fish.

• The choice of size and weight also needs to complement the angler's equipment. Heavier lures require stronger rods and heavier lines, while lighter stickbaits can be used with lighter, more sensitive gear, allowing for a more finesse approach.
• The angler's personal style and preference also play a role. Some anglers might prefer the challenge of using smaller lures, even for larger species, relying more on technique and presentation.

Action and Design

• Action: This surface action involves a side-to-side motion, achieved by twitching the rod tip and reeling in slack line. The stickbait zigzags across the water's surface, mimicking a wounded or disoriented baitfish.
• Appeal to Predators: This action is visually stimulating and creates surface disturbance, which can attract predators from a distance. The erratic movement triggers an instinctive attack response, especially from species known for aggressive surface feeding, like Giant Trevally or Bass.

• Action: Erratic darting involves quick, sharp jerks of the rod, causing the stickbait to dart side to side and up and down, imitating an injured or fleeing baitfish. The movement can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in direction.
• Appeal to Predators: This action exploits the predatory trigger of chasing down weak or fleeing prey. The unpredictable movement can provoke strikes from predators like Tuna or Kingfish, who are attracted to the vulnerability of the "prey".

• Action: Some stickbaits are designed to sink when not being retrieved. As they descend, they wobble or flutter, resembling a dying or injured fish. The speed of the sink can often be adjusted by the weight of the lure and the line tension.
• Appeal to Predators: This action targets predators that are not actively feeding at the surface. The wobble during the sink mimics a natural and vulnerable movement, enticing predators like Snapper or Grouper that are looking for an easy meal.

• The walk-the-dog technique is excellent for aggressive, surface-feeding fish and clear conditions where visual cues are paramount.
• Erratic darting is effective in a range of scenarios, especially when fish are actively feeding or in clearer waters where the lifelike action of the lure can be seen.
• Sinking with wobble is particularly useful in deeper waters, murkier conditions, or when fish are less active at the surface.

Color and Patterns

• Mimicking Natural Prey: Predatory fish are often highly attuned to the specific types of prey available in their environment. By using a lure that mimics the coloration of these natural prey items, you increase the chances that a predator will recognize and strike at the lure. In clear water conditions, the visual acuity of fish is heightened, making the accurate representation of prey species in terms of color and pattern even more crucial.

• Environmental Adaptation: Baitfish and other prey species often have colorations and patterns that help them blend into their surroundings. By matching your lure to these colors, you’re not only imitating the prey but also ensuring that your lure fits into the visual environment of the target species. For instance, in a reef environment, lures that mimic the bright colors of tropical fish might be more effective, whereas, in open ocean waters, shades of blue, silver, or grey that resemble pelagic fish like mackerel or sardines could be more appropriate.

• Seasonal and Geographical Variations: The types of prey available to predators can vary with seasons and geographical locations. It’s important to research and understand what types of baitfish or prey are prevalent in the area during the time of your fishing trip. Local knowledge can be invaluable here. Consulting with local anglers or bait shops about what types of baitfish are currently being preyed upon can guide you in choosing the most effective lure colors.

• Behavioral Triggers: Certain colors can trigger specific behaviors in fish. For example, reds and oranges might mimic injured fish, which can incite an opportunistic feeding response. Bright and contrasting colors can be effective in murky waters or low-light conditions, as they stand out more prominently against a subdued background.

• Experimentation and Flexibility: While matching the local baitfish is a solid starting point, sometimes experimentation can yield surprising results. Fish can be unpredictable, and on any given day, they might respond differently to various colors. Having a variety of colors in your tackle box allows for flexibility and the ability to adapt to the preferences of the fish on that particular day or in specific conditions.

Mastering Stickbait Fishing Techniques

Casting

• Reaching Feeding Zones: Pelagic predators, such as tuna or marlin, often feed at or near the surface, but they can be skittish and maintain a distance from boats or shorelines. Long casts enable anglers to reach these feeding zones without disturbing the fish. In situations where fish are chasing baitfish, they can move rapidly and unpredictably. Being able to cast long distances increases the likelihood of placing the lure within the strike zone.

• Stealth and Minimizing Disturbance: Pelagic species are often highly sensitive to noise and disturbances. A boat getting too close can spook the fish, causing them to dive deeper or leave the area. Long casting allows anglers to stay at a respectful distance while still targeting the fish effectively. The ability to cast accurately is equally important. It ensures that the lure lands precisely in the desired location, whether that’s near a school of baitfish, beside a floating structure, or in a specific current line where fish are actively feeding.

• Maximizing Lure Performance: Many stickbaits and other lures used for pelagic fishing are designed to perform a specific action when retrieved. Longer casts allow more time for the lure to 'work' in the water, giving it a chance to mimic the movement of natural prey effectively. The longer the lure is in the target zone, the higher the probability of attracting and provoking a strike from a predator.

• Covering More Water: Long casts allow anglers to cover a greater area of water, increasing the chances of encountering fish. This is particularly important in vast open-water environments where fish may be spread out. Covering more water is also beneficial when searching for fish or when the exact location of the fish is unknown.

• Adapting to Environmental Conditions: In windy conditions or when dealing with strong currents, the ability to cast long distances becomes even more crucial. It compensates for drift and helps maintain control over the lure’s placement and movement.

• Enhancing Angler Experience: Mastery of long, accurate casting can significantly improve the overall fishing experience. It adds to the angler’s sense of achievement and increases the excitement and anticipation of a potential catch.

Retrieving

1. Walk-the-Dog: This is a classic technique for floating stickbaits. Use a series of rhythmic twitches with your rod tip while retrieving slack line. This creates a side-to-side motion on the surface, resembling a wounded baitfish.
2. Steady Retrieve: A simple and steady retrieve can also be effective, especially in calmer waters. It creates a consistent, subtle wake that can entice curious predators.
3. Pause-and-Go: Intermittently pausing during the retrieve can trigger strikes, as predators often attack when the baitfish appears to be stopping or slowing down, indicating vulnerability.

1. Sweep-and-Pause: After casting, let the lure sink to the desired depth, then use a sweeping motion with the rod to move the lure, followed by a pause. The sinking phase mimics a dying fish, and the sweep mimics an escaping motion.
2. Jerk and Twitch: Sharp jerks and twitches with a pause can create an erratic action, imitating an injured fish trying to escape. This method often triggers aggressive strikes.
3. Slow Retrieve: A slow, steady retrieve at varying depths can be effective, especially in deeper waters or when fish are less active. This technique requires patience and a keen sense of timing to detect subtle bites.

1. Stop-and-Go: Cast and retrieve with a series of starts and stops. The lure suspends in the water column during the stops, which can provoke strikes from predators watching the bait.
2. Twitch-and-Pause: Similar to the jerk and twitch technique, but with more emphasis on the pause. This allows the stickbait to suspend and mimic a stunned or injured baitfish.

1. Popping Action: Use a sharp tug to create a loud splash and bubble trail, mimicking a fleeing or distressed baitfish on the surface. This is great for attracting fish from a distance.
2. Varied Retrieval: Mixing fast and slow retrieves, along with pauses, can be effective. The unpredictable movement can trigger strikes from aggressive surface feeders.

Fighting the Fish

• Match the Speed to Conditions: Adjust your retrieve speed according to the activity level of the fish. More active fish may respond to faster retrieves, while slower retrieves can be effective for less active fish.
• Observe Natural Prey: Try to mimic the movement of the local baitfish. This might involve varying your retrieval technique based on your observations.
• Stay Alert and Responsive: Be ready to adjust your technique based on the fish's response. Sometimes, a slight alteration in speed or rhythm can make a big difference.
• Practice and Experimentation: Each body of water and fish species may require a slightly different approach. Don't hesitate to experiment with different techniques until you find what works best in your specific situation.

Fighting the Fish

1. Rod and Reel: Choose a heavy-duty spinning rod and reel designed for big game fishing. The rod should have enough backbone to handle the strength of pelagic predators, and the reel should have a robust, smooth drag system to withstand long, powerful runs.
2. Line: Use a high-quality braided line for its superior strength-to-diameter ratio and minimal stretch. This provides better sensitivity and control during the fight.

1. The drag should be set correctly before you start fishing. A general rule is to set the drag at about one-third of the line's breaking strength.
2. Use a scale to set the drag accurately if possible. This precision ensures you have enough tension to hook the fish firmly but not so much that the line breaks on a powerful run.

1. Pump and Wind Technique: Use the "pump and wind" technique – lift the rod smoothly to apply pressure on the fish, then reel down as you lower the rod, recovering line. This method helps tire the fish efficiently.
2. Rod Positioning: Keep the rod at an aggressive angle, at all times, to maintain steady pressure. Don't lift the rod much past 45-degrees without really knowing the limitations of your rod. This is referred to as high-sticking (raising the rod too high), which can break the rod or line.
   
3. Use the Reel, Not the Rod: Fight the fish with the reel, not by pulling with the rod. Use the drag system to your advantage to wear down the fish.

1. Be constantly aware of the line tension. If the fish surges, be prepared to let it run, using the drag to control the line going out.
2. Avoid slack in the line, which can lead to a lost hook-up. Keep the line tight but not overly strained.

1. If fishing from a boat, use the boat to your advantage. The captain can maneuver the boat to help keep the line angle favorable and reduce the distance to the fish.
2. Stay aware of the fish's position to avoid line tangles with the boat and other obstacles.

1. Fighting a large pelagic predator can be a long and exhausting process. Stay patient, and keep your focus on maintaining proper technique.
2. Stay hydrated and switch off with another angler if needed, especially during extended fights.

1. When landing the fish, be cautious. Large pelagic species can be dangerous due to their size, strength, and sharp teeth.
2. Use appropriate tools like gaffs or nets, and ensure everyone on the boat knows their role in the landing process.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Look for Wildlife Cues: Birds diving into the water can indicate schools of baitfish, which in turn attract predators. Watching and following bird activity can lead you directly to feeding fish.
2. Baitfish Activity: Pay attention to baitfish behavior. If you see schools of baitfish jumping or moving erratically, it's likely they are being chased by predators. Surface disruptions, especially in calm water, can also be a telltale sign of predatory activity.
3. Water Conditions: Notice the color and temperature of the water. Predators often prefer clear, warmer waters. Look for edges where different water currents meet, as these areas can concentrate baitfish and attract predators.

1. Speed: Altering the speed of your retrieve can make a big difference. Some predators prefer a fast-moving target, while others may be enticed by a slower, more erratic retrieve.
2. Action: Mix up your stickbait’s action with jerks, twitches, pauses, and steady retrieves. Observing how fish react to different movements can guide you to the most effective technique for the day.
3. Depth: Especially with sinking or suspending stickbaits, experiment with retrieving at different depths, as predators may not always feed at the same water level.

1. Persistence: Stickbait fishing can require a lot of trial and error, and success might not come immediately. Patience is essential; keep trying different areas, techniques, and lures.
2. Stay Observant: Even when the fish aren’t biting, there’s a lot to learn. Observe the environment, the baitfish, and any predator activity. This knowledge builds over time and can lead to better future outings.
3. Adaptation: Be willing to adapt your strategy. If something isn’t working, don’t hesitate to change your approach. Flexibility is often the key to a successful fishing trip.

Conclusion

Yet, beyond the thrill, the versatility, and the potential for legendary catches, stickbait fishing for pelagic predators is a dance of patience and skill. It's about reading the water, understanding the nuances of the environment, and becoming attuned to the rhythms of the ocean. Each cast is a story in itself, a blend of hope, anticipation, and the intricate knowledge gained through experience.

Seth Horne In The Spread,
Creator